Cardiff State Beach is a California state beach in San Diego County, established in 1949 and encompassing 507 acres. Known for straightforward seaside recreation, it has long attracted visitors for swimming, surfing, and beachcombing. Its location beside San Elijo State Beach, which includes a state-run campground, places it within a broader and heavily used coastal recreation area. The beach remains an important public shoreline for day use and for the classic beach activities associated with Southern California.